DIY Waterproof Dog Lead Tutorial

Make your own waterproof BioThane dog lead. Easy to do at home with minimal supplies.

BioThane material is durable, waterproof and easy to clean. It's a popular fabric which is used in dog collars and leads. It's like a leather alternative which comes in lots of bright and fun colours.

Make your own matching collar with our collar tutorial here.

If you want to make an adjustable collar then check out our adjustable dog collar tutorial here.

What you'll need for the waterproof dog lead

• BioThane material - we buy ours from www.paracord.co.uk The type and colour used in this tutorial is 19mm BETA, in pastel purple PU522

• Scissors

• Chicago Screws, for our tutorial we used M5x4mm. The first number refers to the diameter of the screw, while the second number is the height of the screw. For example, if we were using multiple layers of BioThane or a thicker fabric we may need need M5x6mm.

• D-ring in your choice of colour, our material is 19mm width so the ring should be a minimum of 19mm.

• Hole Punch the hole needs to be the size of your chicago screws, so in this example you need to make a 5mm hole. However if you had smaller or larger screws you could use a different sized hole to match.

• Swivel Snap Hooks (to fit fabric 2cm width).

• Loctite

• Screwdriver

Watch the video and follow along at your own pace!

Instructions

Step 1 - Decide on the length of lead you'd like

Length of BioThane = Length of lead + 10" Allowance for handle + 3cm for Swivel Hook

For example:

• 3ft Lead = 36” + 10” + 3” = cut 49"

• 4ft Lead = 48” + 10” + 3” = cut 61"

• 5ft Lead = 60” + 10” + 3” = cut 73"

Step 2 - Sealing the edges (optional)

It's possible to seal the edges of BioThane however it's not necessary. There are a number of ways to do this but you it's crucial that you refer to the safety instructions from the manufacturer especially if using heat.

Safety Instructions Here

Step 3 - Punch the holes

For the Swivel Hook:

Start by marking and creating the 6 holes for the swivel hook.

Start by marking a dot 2cm from each end of the biothane piece, this will be where the first hole is punched. Continue following the measurements in the diagram below.

For the Handle:

Next we're going to mark the holes for the handle side, start by making a small dot 10" in from the other end of the biothane, this is the fold mark.

Mark the next 6 holes, start by marking a dot 2cm in from the end and continue with the diagram below.

Fold over the piece where your original mark was at 10" and line up the holes over the biothane, mark an extra 3 holes here and create the holes.

Step 4 - Assemble the Lead

For the Swivel Hook:

Slide the swivel hook onto the lead and fold over so the holes line up. This is where the chicago screws will go to secure the swivel hook in place.

Start by pushing through the screws with the smooth edge, these should be on the outside for a neater finish. Push the other side of the screws through the other holes and fold over the biothane so they line up. Add a few drops of loctite thread locker and use a screwdriver to secure.

For the Handle:

Repeat the same steps for the handle, but slide up a d-ring in between the 3 holes - this can be used to hold a treat bag or a poop bag holder.

Finally wipe away any of the remaining pen marks on you lead and it's finished!

Make sure to check out our other tutorials and tag us on socials if you make anything! @thecaninestory

Disclaimer: This tutorial is provided for entertainment purposes only. The individual creating the project should exercise their own discretion when selecting fabrics and materials, ensuring they are safe and suitable for their pet. Always prioritise the well-being and safety of your pets.

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